Go far in Fargo

True, Fargo, North Dakota, is remote (235 miles northwest of Minneapolis). But the notion that everyone here is a little provincial? That's Hollywood fiction.

Downtown Fargo (population 109,779) offers appealing shops and restaurants, a boutique hotel, and a beautifully restored cinema, all within easy walking distance from each other. Across the Red River in Moorhead, Minnesota, the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County is a fascinating historical counterpoint to ever-hipper Fargo.

Click ahead for some of our favorite places to see, shop, eat and stay in Fargo.

Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County

One of the area's coolest attractions is actually across the river in Moorhead, Minnesota. The society's Hjemkomst Center features a full-scale replica of a Viking ship, as well as a replica of the Hopperstad Stave Church, the original of which is located in Vik, Norway; and a Red River Valley exhibit explaining the history and culture of the area. (218) 299-5511; hcscconline.org

Plains Art Museum

Located in the renovated International Harvester warehouse, this downtown standout is beautiful inside and out. The collection includes works by artists as varied as Impressionist Mary Cassatt and Native American contemporary artist George Morrison. (701) 232-3821; plainsart.org

Bonanzaville USA

Interpreters and 40 buildings on 12 acres re-create life when "bonanza" farms ruled the prairies in the late 1800s. Bonanzaville USA in West Fargo includes just about every type of building and business that might have made up a small North Dakota town when the area was being settled—a log cabin, blacksmith shop, school, drug store, general store, creamery, saloon, newspaper office, bank, barbershop and more. (701) 282-2822; bonanzaville.org

Fargo Air Museum

River Keepers

Guided Red River pontoon rides are an affordable way to enjoy the outdoors in the city. Rides last 45 minutes and are offered Memorial Day to Labor Day, when weather and river conditions permit. (701) 235-2895; riverkeepers.org

Where to eat

• Nichole's Fine Pastry Cakes, tarts, pastries and gelato line up like edible art in the cases. A recent expansion means more seating, a bigger breakfast menu, and more fabulous soups and sandwiches for lunch (pictured). (701) 232-6430; nicholesfinepastry.com

• Monte's Downtown This favorite offers a sophisticated atmosphere and tempting entrees, such as macadamia-crusted halibut and wild mushroom soup. They also have a light menu for late-night eats. (701) 526-0149; montesdowntown.com

Where to stay

The historic Hotel Donaldson features artwork in its 17 stylish rooms and intimate fine-dining restaurant. The hotel includes the HoDo Lounge and seasonal Sky Prairie Lounge, both great places for a cocktail or postshow tapas. The three-story, corner brick building was built by the Fargo Odd Fellows Lodge in 1894. From $179. (701) 478-1000; hoteldonaldson.com